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Bike riders vs. automobiles: Two deaths in the news

Coworkers of Michael Wang leave flowers and a note at a memorial at Dexter and Thomas in the South Lake Union neighborhood. Wang was riding his bicycle when he was killed by a hit-and-run driver nearly a year ago.

Biker’s responsibilities

The deaths of young Nap Cantwell [“Teen cyclist in collision with van dies in hospital,” NWSunday, June 10] and family man Michael Wang [“Tips help police arrest suspect in fatal hit and run,” NWFriday, June 8] were tragic.

Were they avoidable? Both men died riding bicycles on Seattle streets. Wang’s death demands justice, revenge and punishment for a dangerous driver whom was said by witnesses to have hit Wang, fatally injuring him. He then callously drove away as Wang lay dying in the street.

Cantwell’s accidental death, as reported, inferred that his hurrying led to a lack of care and caution, possibly contributing to his death.

I drive in Seattle stop-and-go traffic. I am appalled by bicyclists who slow but do not stop for stoplights at busy intersections I am compelled to wait for. They dash recklessly through the intersection ignoring the signal at peril to themselves and people in cars who have the legal right of way.

I suggest that riders operating these green vehicles are wrong if they believe they are superior human beings or bulletproof and not required to safely follow the rules of the road and traffic-control devices.

The untimely deaths of Cantwell and Wang are proof that attitude or belief is fatally flawed. Maybe bicycle riders ought to pass a test, get a license or wear more protective gear before riding on Seattle streets? Let’s share the road responsibly.